October 2020 by Jax4Kids

Visit us online at www.jax4kids.com

In this issue: Education

FREE! October 2020

Contents • OCTOBER 2020

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers,

LIVING WELL

love our happy, colorful cover this month introducing MOSH’s new exhibit TOYTOPIA! It opens on October 17th and Jax4Kids is delighted to sponsor the exhibit. Learn more about TOYTOPIA on page 5. I also love the Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida – they are our community profile this month. Turn to page 4 to learn about this wonderful and much needed new non-profit that is helping parents. In the month of October, there are several observances worth noting. The pink ribbons at the bottom of each page are a gentle reminder to make your appointment for a mammogram as we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Another life-saving observance is Teen Driver Safety Week, observed October 18 – 24 this year. The sobering statistic from the U.S. Department of Transportation is that 2,121 teen lives were lost in 2018 and of those, 719 of those deaths were the teen driver. If you have a teen, please take a moment to read the potentially life-saving information on page 20. October is also National Bullying Prevention Month. Mark your calendars for October 21st to wear and share orange to prevent bullying and promote kindness, acceptance and inclusion. Turn to page 17 to read Five Things to Know about Bullying Prevention and visit www.pacer. org/bullying to learn more about what you can do to help put an end to bullying. Hispanic Heritage month is celebrated from September 15 through October 15th. On page 5 you’ll find books for kids that celebrate Hispanic Heritage. October is National Principals Month too! Learn how you can #ThankAPrincipal on page 17. When I discovered there was such a thing as Global Handwashing Day in January of this year, I couldn’t have imagined how meaningful that day would be this year. October 15th is the day and the Global Handwashing Partnership would like for educators and parents to forever change

Community Profile: The Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida ��4 MOSH’s TOYTOPIA Exhibit ��5 Family Outing to Flagler ��6 Books to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage ��6

EATING WELL

Front Porch Pickings: Supporting Local Farmers ��7

what the letter H stands for when teaching the alphabet to “H is for the word Handwashing”. According to the National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center, dental care is the leading unmet health care need among children with special needs. So, what do parents and caregivers need to know in order to ensure healthy little teeth and overall well being for children with special needs? Turn to page 13 for guidance from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Sesame Street has a resource that can help prepare children for a visit to the dentist. You can find it at https://autism.sesamestreet.org/ daily-routine-cards/ Did you know North Florida is the second-largest migration site along the Atlantic Coast? Migrating birds can become disoriented flying over the artificial lights and skyglow of big cities. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Duval Audubon Society and St. Johns County Audubon Society have partnered to launch “Lights Out Northeast Florida” to protect migrating birds. Read what you can do to participate and protect migrating birds on page 9. Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

Follow us... Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer...................... linda@jax4kids.com Tim Chavez Graphic Designer........................... tim@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager........................judi@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................... beth@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2020. Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Coronavirus Risks Outdoors ��8 Things to Do: Health & Safety ��9

INFANT & TODDLER

Raising Siblings Who Stick Together �� 10 Top Tips for Surviving Tantrums �� 11 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler �� 11

NATURE

Help save migratory birds by turning lights off at night! �� 12 Things to Do: Nature Events �� 12

SPECIAL NEEDS

Dental Care for Children with Special Needs �� 13 Things to Do: Special Needs Events �� 13

EDUCATION

When We Know Better, We Do Better �� 14 Parent Academy October Courses �� 15 Duval County Public School News ��16-17 Clay County School News �� 18 St. Johns County School District News �� 19

TEENS

2020 National Teen Driver Safety Week �� 20 Things to Do: Teens Events �� 20

PETS

Why You Should Never Trim Your Dog’s or Cat’s Whiskers �� 21 Things to Do: Pets �� 21

THINGS TO DO

Fall Festivals and Halloween Events ��22-23 October Events �� 23

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: The Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida

he idea to start the Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida grew after founder Crystal Parks learned about the National Diaper Bank Network and its mission to end diaper need in the U.S. Upon also learning that WIC and food stamps cannot be used to purchase diapers, she was immediately drawn to the idea of volunteering with a local diaper bank. When Crystal discovered there were no diaper banks in Jacksonville—she decided to start one herself. In October 2019 the Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida was founded and in February 2020 Crystal hosted her first community diaper drive, which resulted in the collection of over 6,600 diapers for local nonprofit Gateway-Steps to Recovery. So, what is the Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida? It is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that was formed as an effort to streamline the collection and distribution of diapers to low-income families across Northeast Florida while also raising awareness that “basic human needs” include diapers. With diapers and financial contributions from the community, their goal is to build a sustainable diaper bank that will serve as a resource for existing

• 30% get diapers from a diaper bank or charity social service organizations and their clients who experience diaper need. Through these collaborative partnerships, low-income families across Northeast This diaper need has consequences for both the children and parents: Florida will gain access to an adequate supply of • Babies who remain in a soiled diaper too long diapers and diaper-related products. By working are exposed to potential health risks such as with organizations that are already well established skin infections, urinary tract infection, in the community, diapers are collected and distribdiscomfort or pain. uted in the most efficient and timely manner. Such • Diaper need can impact the mental well-being current partner agencies include: Community Health of children and their families. Children become Outreach, Gateway Community Services, Family irritable and fussy, which can lead to maternal Promise of Jacksonville, and The Cloth Option. frustration, guilt and embarrassment. • Most childcare centers require parents to Why Diapers provide a day's supply of disposable diapers; Diaper need affects more families than you may therefore, many parents cannot go to work or realize. Diaper need is the lack of a sufficient school if they can't leave their babies at a supply of diapers to keep a baby or toddler clean, childcare center. dry and healthy. According to the National Diaper Bank Network, 1 in 3 U.S. families experience Get Involved diaper need. Disposable diapers can cost up to The Diaper Bank for Northeast Florida has made it $100 per month, per child, and infants require easy to get involved and help! up to 12 diapers per day, toddlers about 8. • Donate Diapers: They gladly accept ANY size, ANY brand, and also accept leftover diapers In the US, due to diaper need: when your little one has been potty trained or • 48% borrow money from family/friends grown out of a size. • 40% keep their child diaperless • Host a Diaper Drive: Hosting a diaper drive is a • 39% stretch diaper use by keeping a child in a great way to help local families experiencing diaper longer

MOSH TOYOPIA Exhibit

diaper need; find the tools to help you get started at jaxdiaperbank.com. • Dollars for Diapers: Money donations help as well! Where to Get Diapers The Diaper Bank does not distribute diapers directly to individuals or families, rather through a network of qualified partner agencies and programs that serve families living in Duval, Clay, Baker, Nassau and St. Johns counties. Visit jaxdiaperbank.com for more information. • Community Health Outreach (Baby Luv Pregnancy Center). • Family Promise of Jacksonville • Gateway-Steps to Recovery • The Cloth Option j

jaxdiaperbank.com

et’s face it: our youth is shaped by toys. From learning our colors and numbers as infants to putting together grand creations with LEGO blocks as tweens, to family nights spent around a board game, play is an important aspect of growing up — and the foundation of lifelong learning.

little extra fun. Partnering with Stage 9 Exhibits to bring TOYTOPIA to Jacksonville has been a labor of love, and we know it will be a great way to experience the evolution of toys and usher in our new exhibit – with a big helping of nostalgic fun.”

The Museum of Science & History is showcasing all the best nostalgic toys with its newest exhibit, TOYTOPIA: a one-of-a-kind experience that will be sure to rekindle the wonder and delight of your favorite childhood moments, while capturing the imagination of your own children.

TOYTOPIA, presented by Stage 9 Exhibits, is a whimsical experience that is fun for the whole family. The exhibit includes a retro arcade, a life-sized doll house, iconic brands like Hasbro and Crayola, and the world’s largest Etch A Sketch – something worth seeing all on its own. From Easy Bake Ovens to Lincoln Logs, there is something that will thrill every member of the family, no matter their age.

At MOSH, they believe in the powerful link between play and learning. This exhibition is the combination of both of those worlds. According to “The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children,” a 2018 study published in the journal Pediatrics, there is overwhelming evidence that letting kids let loose through play is beneficial to their development. Play is a brain-building activity, not something frivolous to overlook. The authors advised pediatricians to “take an active role by writing a prescription for play for their young patients,” especially in the first two years of life. Our Educators agree that play is critical to developing a lifelong journey of curiosity and learning. “This exhibit is one we’ve been excited about for a while,” said Bruce Fafard, Interim CEO of MOSH. “Months of social distancing have shown us how important it is to find joy and creativity through play, and we can all use a

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

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The exhibition is included with Museum admission; no additional tickets are needed. MOSH is taking special precautions to ensure the safety of visitors. All guests ages 6+ are required to wear face masks during their visit; sanitized stylus pens are provided for use with exhibits; many components have been converted to touchless interactivity; and a heightened cleaning regimen of all public spaces is in place. TOYTOPIA features additional signage and modifications that are in line to the MOSH’s COVID-19 policies. Experience this exhibit for yourself before it becomes but a memory in Jacksonville. Bring your family and friends and enjoy the stroll down memory lane together. The exhibit is open now through May 16, 2021. For more information and tickets, visit themosh.org. j

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

EATING WELL

LIVING WELL

Family Outing in Flagler

lagler County offers a great array of outdoor activities for families in a tranquil setting and close to home. You won’t find high rise buildings lining the beaches in Flagler County, but rather county parks all along the shoreline. You can check out the live beach cam at https://www.visitflagler. com/beaches/. There are also more than 125 miles of trails for walking, biking and hiking. The Lehigh Trail is located on a former railroad corridor comprising 195 acres. The railroad spur once carried cement and other materials to and from the Lehigh Portland Cement Plant in Flagler Beach. The trail connects US 1 north of Bunnell with Colbert Lane, running through the center of Palm Coast, through Graham Swamp and ending just west of the old Lehigh Portland Cement Company. Surrounded by trees for most of the way, the trail provides a safe place for families to walk or bike and, it’s wheelchair accessible.

Brigadier General Joseph Hernandez — Florida’s first voice in the U.S. Congress and also its first Hispanic member. General Hernandez purchased the 724-acre MalaCompra Plantation in 1816 for $1,500. The plantation was destroyed in 1836 by the Seminoles during the Second Seminole War. For family dining, try the tin-roofed JT's Seafood shack at 5224 N Oceanshore Blvd, just a short distance from Bing’s Landing for lunch or dinner. There are several restaurants near the Flagler Beach Pier that offer vies of the ocean. The Funky Pelican at the foot of the Flagler Beach Pier serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The reasonably priced Java Joint Beachside Grill at 2201 N Oceanshore Blvd. is open for breakfast and lunch and offers a great variety of menu choices.. Entrees on the kids’ menu run $2.99 - $4.29.

In the 3,000-acre conservation zone of Graham Swamp the trail has elevated views of the surrounding wetlands. Watch here for some of Florida's wildlife species, including wading birds, waterfowl, deer, otters, foxes and alligators. The trail is 6.9 miles long and has three access points: Colbert Lane, Old Kings Road and Belle Terre Parkway, all of which are approximately 1.5 miles north of SR 100.

If you want to make a weekend of it instead of a day trip, you can rent a cabin at the Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort. The resort is situated on both sides of A1A. If you want to on the side of the ocean, be sure to request a beachfront or ocean view cabin. Excluding holidays, rates at this time of year range from The Flagler Beach Pier at 215 S. Oceanshore $110 to $170 a night, depending on the cabin Blvd. stretches 806 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and day of week. For more information, visit and is a great spot for fishing or bird watching. them at beverlybeachcamptown.com or call Bing’s Landing at 5862 N. Oceanshore Blvd. is 386-439-3111. an eight-acre park located within a maritime oak hammock along the Intracoastal WaterFor more places to stay, restaurants and way. activities in the area, visit flaglercounty.org and visitflagler.com. j The park houses a boat launch, fishing pier, Richard D. Carlson picnic and playground facilities, and an archaeological dig of the Mala Compra Plantation. Previously the plantation home of Parking on the western end is available at the intersection of Royal Palms Parkway and Belle Terre Parkway, and on the southwest side of Palm Coast. The trailhead is just south of Royal Palms on the east side of Belle Terre.

Books to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Across the Bay

by Carlos Aponte Bright, colorful illustrations bring Puerto Rico to life as one little boy travels across the bay to Old San Juan in search of a father he’s never known. (Ages 3 – 7)

Front Porch Pickings: Supporting Local Farmers I t’s easy to eat local with Front Porch Pickings!

The Secret Footprints

by Julia Alvarez, illustrated by Fabian Negrin Dive into the folk tale of the legendary Dominican ciguapas, human-like creatures who live underwater and only venture out at night. When one curious ciguapa girl stumbles upon a human boy who’s about her age, they slowly become friends despite their differences. (Ages 3 – 8)

Front Porch Pickings has partnered with local farmers and producers to create subscription farm boxes that fit your needs. Each week, they deliver a wide variety of delicious, fresh produce. Local selections range from the tried-and-true to the delightfully adventurous.

My Papi Has a Motorcycle

by Isabel Quintero, illustrated by Zeke Peña From the back of her Papi’s motorcycle, Daisy Ramona has a perfect view of the people and places that make her vibrant immigrant community so special. (Ages 4 – 8)

My Papi Has a Motorcycle

by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos If your family doesn’t know the life story of Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic Supreme Court Justice, this picture book biography is for you! Sotomayor faced many struggles in life, but she didn’t let them stop her from achieving greatness. (Ages 5 – 8)

Waiting for the Biblioburro

by Monica Brown, illustrated by John Parra Based on a real-life traveling librarian in Columbia, a young girl feeds her need for stories while waiting for the Biblioburro’s next visit by writing her own. (Ages 5 – 8)

Who Was Cesar Chavez?

by Dana Meachen Rau and Who HQ, illustrated by Ted Hammond As a labor leader and civil rights activist, Mexican American Cesar Chavez was known for dedicating his life to improving the working conditions and wages of farmworkers. This biography from the popular Who Was? series tells of Chavez’s early life and the conditions that led to his push for social change. (Ages 8 – 12)

vegetables, fruits, grass-fed meat, free range eggs, and artisan goods like breads, honey, coffee, and cheese. In addition to their locally-grown and sourced items, you'll find staples grown outside of Florida to help you make delicious meals. Your total will depend on what you've placed in your order. If you choose not to customize, you’ll be sent the pre-selected items! STEP 3: They deliver, you enjoy! Front Porch Pickings hand-picks your produce and carefully packs your order, then their team delivers your order to your door on your delivery day! If you are not home, just leave out a cooler. Gather your friends and family to enjoy!

PICK UP LOCATIONS All of their Florida produce and artisanal goods Wednesday: 12pm to 5pm at 1272 S. McDuff Ave are available in their online store and are available for pick up or delivery to your home, Jacksonville, FL 32205. office, or restaurant. DELIVERY DAYS Deliveries are on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sign up is easy with three simple steps: Fridays depending on your delivery location. STEP 1: Select your farm box subscription. DELIVERY AREA Choose your farm box, start date, and the Clay, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler, and Volusia delivery frequency that is right for you. Front counties. Check out the map on frontporchPorch Pickings offers weekly and every other pickings.com to see if you’re in a delivery week delivery schedules to fit your lifestyle. Boxes start at just $28.00 and include free area. delivery with an option to tip your driver. There is a one-time $25 member fee at the time of Front Porch Pickings offers a healthy and your registration. perfectly socially-distanced school fundraising opportunity as an alternative to fundraising STEP 2: Order what you love. Want to change your order? Customizing is easy. They events. They will donate $5.00 to the school for each box sold. It takes selling just a 100 offer the unique ability to shop just like you boxes to gift your school $500. Contact fp@ are at the farmers’ market. As a member, frontporchpickings.com to get started. j you’ll log in to your account from Friday afternoons to Monday at noon to remove any of the pre-selected items and add other delicious frontporchpickings.com

CALL TO ARRANGE YOUR HOMESCHOOL CLASS! WE WILL ACCOMODATE YOUR CO-OP GROUP! SMALL CLASS SIZES AND WE FOLLOW ALL CDC GUIDELINES!

38th annual

Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak Spanish

by Pablo Cartaya Based on a real-life traveling librarian in Columbia, a young girl feeds her need for stories while waiting for the Biblioburro’s next visit by writing her own. (Ages 5 – 8)

readbrightly.com

“When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

Town of Orange Park For Visitor Information, Go

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

To www.ExploreClay.com

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

Coronavirus Risks Outdoors

f you think you’re safe from the coronavirus just because you’re outdoors, think again. While the wind and the large volume of air make the outdoors less risky than being indoors, circumstances matter. Someone who is infectious can cough or sneeze, or just talk and, if you happen to inhale those respiratory droplets or they plop into your eye, you can get infected. If you shake hands with an infected person and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth, you also run a chance of getting infected. You don’t have to be inhaling an infected person’s air for very long. What matters is the dose. As an infectious disease doctor, I get a lot of questions from patients about COVID-19 risks. Here are some answers about the risks outdoors. Doesn’t wind make outside safer than inside? It’s true that the wind helps disperse respiratory droplets that can carry viruses.

higher likelihood of severe disease. Remember that just breathing expels respiratory droplets, and loud, animated speech like When you’re indoors, one of the big concerns laughing or shouting expels more. We don’t yet about how the coronavirus spreads is aerosols know how much virus is needed to trigger – tiny, light droplets people emit along with symptoms, but those doses add up. So, you larger droplets when they breathe. These might get a small dose from a person sitting particles can linger in the air, and the concennext to you, but if that person later gives you a tration can build up in enclosed, poorly big hug or shakes your hand, they could give ventilated spaces. There’s less of a risk in open you another dose. Or you might talk to someone outdoor settings because of the sheer volume else who is infectious for several minutes and of air and available space to physically distance. inhale more virus particles. At least one study, not yet peer reviewed, found COVID-19 patients were nearly 20 times more likely to have been infected indoors than outdoors.

All it takes is one person in the peak infectious period – the 24 to 48 hours before and after symptoms start – to spark a superspreader event.

But that doesn’t mean you’re in a protective bubble when outdoors.

When do I have to wear a mask outdoors? Face masks lower your risk of getting infected, and they also reduce the amount of virus you’re spreading if you’re infected.

What behaviors could put you at risk outside? Not wearing a mask. With no mask, infectious people can be shedding the virus when they talk and there is nothing to stop the respiratory droplets. For people not yet infected, no mask means the virus has several ways to enter their bodies – nose and mouth as well as eyes. The lack of masks also raises the risk of getting a larger dose, and a higher viral load may mean a

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

If you’re running or walking, carry a mask with you. When you’re near other people, put it on. If you’re sitting at an outdoor café, try to mask up between bites and sips, especially if your age or health or weight make you vulnerable to severe COVID-19.

The likelihood of a passing interaction from someone walking by a table is small, but it’s still possible. The safest spot when eating outdoors is a table away from high-traffic areas and upwind of everyone else.

Things to Do

Is six feet of social distancing enough? Depending on where you are, maximize the distance between yourself and others. There’s nothing magic about staying six feet apart. Particles generated by sneezes can travel a lot farther than that. Twelve or 15 feet is safer. It’s all about minimizing risk. You can never drive that risk to zero when you’re in public.

Homeschool P.E. Fridays, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 10am to 12noon First Coast Athletics provides a safe and positive physical education experience for homeschool students (K-8th). They use a variety of games and activities that are both fun and educational. The goal is to provide an atmosphere in which students of varying ages can learn physical skills that will lead them to a lifetime of health, fitness and fun. Classes are held in five week sessions. Cost is $15/child/class; $70/child for the 5 week session; $130 for two children; $180 for three children. St. Johns Golf and Country Club Community Center / 863-368-0950 / 205 St Johns Golf Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www. firstcoastathletics.com

Can I still have people over for an outside party? To keep things safe for an outdoor gathering, set up tables for each social bubble – a family, for example. Keep the tables at least 15 to 20 feet apart. Set up food on individual plates in a central location and have people or each bubble go up separately. Don’t share utensils or food or glasses. Wear masks as much as possible, and don’t forget physical distancing. j Thomas A. Russ, Professor and Chief, Infectious Disease, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York theconversation.com

Health & Safety

Open Gym at TNT Gymnastics Saturdays, October 3, 17, 3pm to 4pm and

4:30pm to 5:30pm; Sundays, October 4, 11, 18, 3:30pm to 4:30pm Due to COVID-19 restrictions, they are limiting the number of children allowed out on the floor, so you can now preregister through the Customer Portal. The 1 hour open gym is $10 per child if you preregister and $12 for walk-ins. However, walk-in participation will be based on preregistration numbers, so once they fill up, they will be unable to accept any more walk-ins. Membership is not required to register for open gyms, but members do get priority. Non-members: If you do not wish to purchase the gym membership, you will still need to create a customer portal and then give the office a call to preregister without the membership fee. Note, due to COVID-19 the foam pit is closed until further notice. However, all other equipment is available. TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 St Johns Bluff Rd South Ste 107, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / tntgymfit.com San Marco Wine and Chocolate Run October 11, 5pm There will be waves of 100 people starting

every two minutes starting from two different starting lines beginning at 5pm. Please wear a mask when you cannot adhere to the 6 foot spacing guideline. Due to the current COVID crisis race entries will be limited and social distancing guidelines will be in place. There will also be a virtual option if you do not want to attend the in person event. There will not be an award or post-race ceremony. However, each finisher will receive a custom designed wine glass, wrapped chocolate, and a small bottle of wine as they pass through the finish line. Bikes and dogs are not allowed on the course under any circumstance. Biking next to a runner could lead to the runner being disqualified. 1st Place Sports / 904-399-8880 / 2018

San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / 1stplacesports.com Jax Urban Cyclocross October 22, 6:30pm to 7:30pm This race will benefit Florida Interscholastic Cycling League's local Jax team - 904 Duval Devils. In the kids honor, this week all kids race for free. Race entry for all others is $15. Registration begins at 5:45pm and races begin at 6:30pm. Willow Branch Park / 904-636-7772 / 2875 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www. floridamtb.org Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Health & Safety Events.

“The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” – Dalai Lama

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

INFANT & TODDLER

Raising Siblings Who Stick Together F or most families, siblings are a fact of life. More than 80% of children live with at least one sibling! Most people have good memories (obstacle courses in the backyard), and not-so-good ones (pinching contests on long car rides). Having—and being—a sibling shapes us in important ways. Siblings Shape Us Growing up with siblings helps children develop skills like negotiation and problem solving. Siblings also help us learn to understand the feelings of others. Children whose siblings are kind, warm, and supportive show more empathy than children whose siblings don’t show these qualities. Sibling relationships benefit children as they grow. Teens who feel supported by a sibling tend to have better friendships and higher self-esteem. Older adults who are close to their siblings report higher life satisfaction and lower rates of depression. What You Can Do Check out these tips for building strong sibling bonds, starting in the early years. Avoid favorites. It seems obvious, but having a “favorite” damages sibling relationships. Avoid comparing siblings or criticizing one sibling in front of another. Build strong relationships with each child so each feels loved, valued, and special. Make some one-on-one time with each child part of your daily routine.

other activities are great for children of different ages and temperaments.

• Leave them alone. If they’re having fun together, you don’t need to join in. Let them play and take a few minutes to relax! • Give them a mission to complete as a team: “Can you two push the laundry basket over to the washing machine? Let’s see how strong you are together!”

Build sibling connections into daily routines. Prompt children to say “good night,” “I love you,” and “good bye” to their siblings across the day. Cheer each other on. Encourage sibs to support one another. First time big brother rides a bike with no training wheels? Highfives from his younger siblings. Little sister builds a super-tall block tower? Snap a family pic to celebrate the moment.

INFANT & TODDLER

Episcopal Children’s Services Free Child Care Resource & Referral (904) 726-1500 • (800) 238-3463 www.ecs4kids.org Child Care Resource and Referral Services can help your family by providing: • A customized list of local child care options from our trained specialists. • Information about quality child care and early learning programs • Financial assistance strategies and opportunities • Referrals to other community resources and programs.

Early Learning Coalition North Florida

Helping Children. Helping Families.

Give siblings a chance to care for one another. If a child is sick, let his brother bring him a snack. If a child falls down at the park, ask her sister to help her up while you pull band-aids out of the diaper bag.

Know this: Tantrums do tend to get better after the age of 3. Although they don’t go away entirely. Your child will do tantrums to get things that she needs normally and naturally between the ages of 1 and 3 years. Talk with your pediatrician if you’re concerned about some of those behaviors. Do your best to remain calm. Use your friends and family around you to help understand how to stand back and wait for tantrums to dissolve on their own so you can come back to your child with great comfort.

• Involve children in activities like preparing special meals, making cookies, decorating for the holidays, and other important family activities (like planting a garden in the spring). • Offer shared activities like a “family picture”—a big piece of paper that everyone draws on—or a “family fruit salad,” where each family member adds a different kind of fruit to the bowl.

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 10

antrums are a normal part of development. 1. Give your child enough attention and They happen most between ages 1 and 3 “catch her being good.” Provide specific years, but as so many of us know, some kids praise in successful moments. However, are huge tantrum throwers, and some are not. don’t feel that if one child tantrums more Many children have more tantrums prior to than another that you aren’t providing and around the time of language development. enough attention. Personality is infused in Before kids are fully verbal, they’re frustrated, behaviors, including tantrums. and in that sense of frustration or hunger or 2. During a tantrum, give your child control dissatisfaction, tantrums can be an easy way over little things (offer small, directed for kids to try to get what they need.. choices with options rather than yes/no questions). When You Can’t Ignore Your Child’s 3. Distraction. Move to a new room. Offer a Tantrum safer toy. However silly, sing a song. Sometimes it’s really hard for us to stop 4. Choose your battles and accommodate tantrums. There are a couple of times when when you can. Sometimes you have to you can’t ignore your child in a tantrum. give in a little to settle yourself; that’s OK. However, your consistency from day to If your child is physically at risk of running into day is key in reducing the level and the street or in danger, grab him tightly and frequency of tantrums. So is time. hold him or make it very clear to him. Although most tantrums happen in 1- to 3-year-old children, many children If your child is hitting or biting, stop it immedicontinue to throw tantrums into the ately and make sure that you let him know school years. that it’s absolutely not acceptable by moving 5. Know your child’s limits. Obviously, some his body out of a situation or taking away a days are harder than others. Sometimes privilege. we don’t get to finish the to-do list. The Light at the End of the Tunnel

Establish family traditions that build strong sibling bonds.

Help children learn to resolve their differences. Conflicts between siblings give children many, many opportunities to practice turn-taking and cooperation. These moments also help children see the world from someone else’s While sibling conflict is normal, sibling perspective. Let your children try to work it connections are too. Nurturing these early out, and step in only when they need help. relationships is a gift you can give your children, and one that they’ll take with them Create opportunities for siblings to have fun their entire lives. j together. zerotothree.org • A dance party, water play, blocks, art and

Top Tips for Surviving Tantrums T

Eight Tips to Surviving a Tantrum

Kids really do say the funniest things! Please share your favorites with us by e-mailing your story directly to editor@jax4kids.com. One entry each month will be turned into a cartoon to be published in the next issue of Jax4Kids. We’ll send you the original cartoon as a keepsake.

You can’t avoid every tantrum, but here are some ideas to help you survive them more gracefully.

6. Do not ignore behaviors like hitting, kicking, biting, or throwing. Have a zero-tolerance policy. 7. Set your child up for success. If tantrums peak when your child is hungry, have a healthy snack with you when you’re out of the house. If they peak when your child is fatigued, prioritize sleep/nap time even if you miss things. Sometimes it’s far better on all of us. 8. Give yourself a break when you need it. Take turns with another parent or friend when your frustration escalates. j healthychildren.org

Things to Do Infant & Toddler

Little Readers October 3, 5, 12, 19, 26, 10am to 10:30am This literacy-based program is for children from birth to Pre-K and their families. Kids will sing, talk, read, write, and play together to develop the pre-literacy skills your little ones need to get ready to read and write. Each week has a letter theme. Registration is required for this event, and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card is required for registration. Attendance is limited to 40 participants. Your Zoom name must match your registration name for you to be admitted to the program. A link to the Zoom meeting room will be sent 1 hour prior to the event. Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org MOSH Molecules • October 3, 17, 9am The Museum of Science & History’s newest early childhood program provides big learning for the youngest guests. Geared for children ages 3, 4 and 5, MOSH Molecules allows you and your child to explore and create memories in a safe environment. Classes are held every 1st and 3rd Saturday morning of the month each semester, with 8 children maximum per class. Classes are at 9am and 10:30am. Each month’s classes will be themed- Animals, Space, Science or Art. Program content may include any of the following: reading a book, completing a craft, physical activity, free play, hands on activity, songs and dance. Classes will last 45 minutes. The October 3 class will be Dino STOMP!, and the October 17 class will be Fish Friends. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Mini Monday at Color Me Mine Mondays, October 5, 12, 19, 26 12noon to 6pm Mondays are Mini Mondays at Color Me Mine, with $1 studio fees for preschoolers all day. Hours are temporarily modified; Color Me Mine is open 12noon to 6pm. Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Mommy & Me Halloween Handprint October 13, 12noon to 1pm Color Me Mine hosts a Mommy & Me Halloween Handprint painting event. Mommyand-Me is a storytime and painting activity for toddlers and preschoolers. Staff will read a story, then you and your child complete a handprint plate together. Staff members will be available to help create a themed plate during the class. Choose from one of three Halloween Print Plate Designs. Price includes

group storytime, 1 salad plate, and personalization. Your Mommy & Me registration covers your child's studio fee for the day, so you are welcome to stay and paint more items. Just pay the price of the pieces. Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Virtual Little Learners Program: Imagine That! • October 14, 10am On the second Wednesday of every month, MOSH presents exclusive programming designed for early learning and development to encourage the growth of young minds. These programs encompass various learning styles and activities for preschool aged children that help to enhance their skills and dexterity. To ensure the safety of our youngest guests and their caregivers, MOSH’s monthly Little Learners program will be presented via virtual format. MOSH’s Education staff will lead each virtual event and present fun, entertaining experiences for little learners and families. Virtual programs will feature guest-appearances from Little Learners program partners, story time sessions, and themed scientific activities that children and caregivers can complete together. To ensure the safety of the youngest guests and their caregivers, MOSH’s monthly Little Learners program will be presented via virtual format. MOSH’s Education staff will lead each virtual event and present entertaining experiences for little learners and families. Virtual programs will feature guest-appearances from Little Learners program partners, story time sessions, and themed scientific activities that children and caregivers can complete together. Admission is $6 per person (ages 3 & up). Please register in advance. Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / info@themosh.org / themosh.org Jax Bump & Beyond Expo October 24, 9am to 3pm Wonderfully Made Doula Services hosts the Jax Bump and Beyond Expo. The event features organic & eco-friendly products, exclusive deals, swag bags, and educational speakers. Swag gift bags will be given to the first 100 to enter. Other features of the event include a baby changing/feeding area, coffee bar, and workshops. Tickets are $8 each for ages 18 and up. Under 18 are free. All attendees are asked to wear a face covering, compliant with current Jacksonville regulations. Vendor booths will be physically distanced, breakout sessions will be set up to encourage physical distancing as well, and restrooms will be cleaned and sanitized regularly throughout the day. Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park / 919-637-0692 / 4812 West Deer Lake Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.doulasofjacksonville.com Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list Infant & Toddler Events.

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

Things to Do

NATURE

Help save migratory birds by turning lights off at night!

acksonville Zoo and Gardens, Duval Audubon Society, and St. Johns County Audubon Society have partnered to launch Lights Out Northeast Florida during the Spring and Fall Migrations of migratory birds. Undertaking the long migration journey comes with its challenges, but one hurdle has grown significantly over the past several years and has had a huge impact on bird populations: the increase of artificial light shining into the night sky. Every year, billions of birds migrate north in the spring and south in the fall, the majority of them flying at night, navigating with the night sky. However, as they pass over big cities on their way, they can become disoriented by bright artificial lights and skyglow, often causing them to collide with buildings or windows. While lights can throw birds off their migration paths, bird fatalities are more directly caused by the amount of energy the birds waste flying around and calling out in confusion. The exhaustion can then leave them vulnerable to other urban threats. “Because these birds migrate at night and use the stars and moon as directional cues, the bright lights on our homes and buildings can attract and disorient them on their journey,” said Amy Koch, President of St. Johns County Audubon Society. “The loss of birds during their migration is a problem that people can help mitigate, and that’s why we decided to come together to inform everyone about the issue and to share ideas about what we can do together in our Northeast Florida community to help save birds.” North Florida is the second-largest migration site along the Atlantic Coast. According to the National Audubon Society, 70 percent of North American bird species are migratory, and 80 percent of those species migrate at night— primarily small, colorful songbirds. “These are the songbirds we see regularly during Spring and Fall when they stop to rest and refuel on the thousands-of-miles-long journey to their breeding or wintering

grounds,” said Carol Bailey-White, President of Duval Audubon Society. The group shares these tips to start implementing now for the Fall Migration, from September to November, and later in the Spring Migration, from February until May: • Turn off lights during the darkest period of night, between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. • Direct lights to point downward, instead of upward into the sky • Switch floodlights to timed lights or motion sensor lights • Encourage businesses to turn off their lights or reduce the amount of time their lights are on at night • Share the message online using the hashtag #LightsOutForBirds The purpose of Lights Out Northeast Florida is to inform, encourage and empower the community on ways they can reduce their impact on migratory birds. Join us in turning off our lights or reducing the amount of light projected into the sky through alternative lighting options and easy, cost-effective strategies. “We are excited to partner with our two local Audubon Societies. This is an incredible effort that can only be accomplished by working together, using scientific data and sharing that information with an easy and direct way for our communities to make an impact,” said Mike Taylor, Curator of Birds, Herps and Others at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. “We are excited to launch this program, growing our community and making sure the colorful songbirds at our feeders continue to pass through without interruption and invite them back season after season.” Taking more steps to decrease the amount of light our buildings emit minimizes unnecessary bird deaths, saves money by reducing energy consumption, and supports your or your organization’s sustainability goals. j jacksonvillezoo.org audubon.org

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 12

Nature Events

Bird Watching Academy & Camp Monthly Boxes Bird Watching Academy & Camp helps “Get Kids Bird Watching” with monthly subscription boxes. Starter kits are available that include binoculars. Bird watching maps are included in the kits. There are 20 birds placed on each map. Each time a kid sees a bird they can place a bird sticker on the map. This feature is to help kids count birds. Counting birds is a big part of bird watching. Counting birds is also a good starting point for the age group 5 to 10. Kids will learn about 12 birds each month. Subscription kits start at $5/month. Bird Watching Academy & Camp / birdwatchingacademy@gmail.com / www. birdwatchingacademy.com Insect Explorers October 12, 10am; October 22, 9am; October 24, 10am and 1pm Join Jax Dragonfly Academy to learn about the many types of insects living in your backyard. Activities include learning insect parts and life cycle, making observations about insects, bug games, and exploring and catching insects. Students will also get to take home a magnifying jar and bug info that will help them to search for bugs on their own at home. This program is appropriate for kids ages 5-17. Each ticket purchased is for a program participant. Children under 5 years old may not participate for safety reasons. Parents are encouraged to stay during the program. The length is approximately 1.5 hours, but you may stay after the program to explore the park. Tickets are $15. Ringhaver Park / 904-345-0435 / 5198 118th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / www. jaxdragonfly.org 2020 A Brush with Nature October 17-18, 9am to 5pm

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens hosts A Brush with Nature Plein Air event. All works of art created at the event are available for sale - with proceeds benefiting the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens and the artists. A special children's tent will be available to learn about the Plein Air artform and some simple scientific lessons on nature and plant life. Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens / 904318-4342 / 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.jacksonvillearboretum.org Our Big Backyard - Virtual Event October 23, 3pm Join Ms. Marcia as she explores Our Big Backyard. Each month, Ms. Marcia will teach you all about a different animal that lives right here in Our Big Backyard. The program is available on the St. Johns County Public Library System Facebook page. St. Johns County Public Library / 904-8276950 / sjcpls.org Fall 2020 Beginner Beekeeper's Short Course October 24, 8:30am to 3pm Learn about what it takes to become a beekeeper by attending the Fall 2020 Beginner Beekeeper’s Short Course. Participants will learn about pollinating crops and garden, harvesting honey, and general beekeeping. Participants will gain an understanding of the steps and processes involved in keeping honey bees, work with an active hive during the course, and take home a jar of local honey. This course is also available for virtual participation, and will be broadcast live via Zoom. There is a $15 individual registration fee or $25 per couple, as well as a $10 fee for virtual participation for this course to cover the purchase of materials. UF/IFAS Clay County Extension Office / 904284-6355 / 2463 State Rd 16 West, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Nature events.

SPECIAL NEEDS Dental Care for Children with Special Needs

ediatric dentists are the dental professionals of choice for children with special needs. All pediatric dentists are trained in the care of patients with special needs. Beyond dental school, pediatric dentists have 2-3 years of specialized training in areas such as addressing anxiety related to dental visits. Talk to your pediatric dentist about best-practice recommendations that can help better meet your child’s specific needs. For example, many products, such as floss holders, fluoride rinses and adaptive aids for toothbrushes are available to help a patient with special needs prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends visiting a pediatric dentist by your child’s first birthday – or when the first tooth appears. Parents and caregivers of special needs children often have concerns about their child’s tolerance of a dental appointment, but postponing the visit is not the answer. It’s important that parents bring their children in early so the dentist can be doing preventive work versus treating problems. Pediatric dentists are familiar with a variety of approaches and look to parents or caregivers to select the best approach for the specific health and behavioral needs of each child. For example, according to the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network, research shows that patients with autism do particularly well if they can see the same staff and same dentist for every appointment. Tooth decay is mostly preventable. Children with developmental problems have a greater chance for bite problems, such as crowding, bite and poor jaw position. Additionally, children who experience delays in growth and development may also take longer to get their baby teeth and adult teeth. A pediatric dentist will be able to identify any issues early on and provide a recommendation for care. Often, children with special needs require more assistance and practice in taking care of their teeth. For example, children with autism might have sensory issues that can make proper dental hygiene challenging and brushing teeth difficult because the sensation can be uncomfortable at first. Parents might want to start by using the toothbrush to touch

your child’s lips or just inside the mouth. Here are some tips to ensure your child’s first visit to a pediatric dentist is a positive one for the whole family. Find a pediatric dentist who makes you and your child comfortable. Pediatric dentists are like the Pediatricians of Dentistry and have specialized training to treat children with special health care needs. You can find a local pediatric dentist by using the pediatric dentist finder on mychildrensteeth. org or ask your pediatrician early on for a referral to a local pediatric dentist. Provide your pediatric dentist with information about your child prior to the first visit. Make note of anything about your child that could help the visit go smoothly. Pre-visit is the perfect time to ask questions, voice concerns and make sure that you and your new pediatric dentist are on the same page. Prepare yourself and your child for the first visit. Stay positive and make your child excited about the visit. You can even start to prepare them early by saying we’re going to visit an old friend next week and then drive by the office to show them where you’ll be going. Be sure to read the information your pediatric dentist sends in advance of your appointment so you know what to expect and can prepare your child.

Things to Do Special Needs Events Brooks IceBreakers Sled Hockey Saturdays, Thru November 14 Brooks Pediatric Recreation hosts IceBreakers Sled Hockey. All equipment is provided free of charge to participants. To maintain the health and safety of our participants, families, and staff, parents/caregivers will be asked to dress their child off the ice. Brooks Pediatric Recreation staff will provide transfers of athletes in/out of sleds and on/off the ice. Please register in advance. Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex / 904-3457501 / 3605 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / brooksrehab.org Sibshop Sibstops October 5 & 21, 3pm When a child is diagnosed with a developmental disability, the entire family is affected. Sibshops are engaging and interactive workshops that offer support and guidance while allowing siblings to share the challenges and celebrate the joys of having a brother or sister with a special need (cognitive, medical, developmental and/or learning disability). Youth tend to open up most about being a sibling when they are comfortable and reinforced for their honesty. This workshop is for kids ages 8-13 who have a sibling with a special need. The event will be held online, via Zoom, beginning at 3pm. Free, but pre-registration is required. UF Health Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / audrey.bringman@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu What is Autism? October 15, 12noon to 1:15pm Join Kerry Wittel in a live online webinar to discuss autism, the characteristics and strategies to use to support preschool

children with autism. This is a free event, but pre-registration is required. UF Health Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / kwittel@fau.edu / whatisautism10152020.eventbrite.com 2020 DSAJ 18th Annual Buddy Walk October 17 This year, due to social distancing restrictions, the walk will not be held at the Seawalk Pavilion. Each team will have its own private Buddy Walk this year. Get in touch with your Team Captain to find out what they have planned. The DSAJ team will be supporting Buddy Walk team captains as they host dozens of personalized celebrations – tailored to their friends and family – across Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia on Saturday, October 17. Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville / 904-353-6300 / buddywalk@dsaj.org / dsaj.donordrive.com 2020 Golf For Autism October 24, 8:30am The Jericho School for Children with Autism hosts a Golf For Autism event. The event is an 18 Hole, 4-Person Best Ball Charity Golf Tournament. There will be a putting contest and closest to the pin challenge, prizes, raffles, and more. Lunch and an award ceremony will follow the round of golf. This charity event will benefit the students and families of The Jericho School. Registration begins at 8am, followed by a shotgun start at 8:30am. Entry fees range from $95 to $350. Blue Sky Golf Club / 904-744-5110 / 1700 Monument Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.thejerichoschool.org Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Special Needs events.

Make dental health a priority at home from day one. Parents can help their children become familiar with great oral health when they are very young by wiping their gums with a wet washcloth and ensuring they don’t take bottles to bed filled with sugary drinks. Consistent routines that promote oral health and drinking water throughout the day can be important measures in helping keep teeth clean at home.

Dr. John Hendry American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry mouthmonsters.mychildrensteeth.org

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

4. COLLEGE/CAREER PLANNING

EDUCATION

When We Know Better, We Do Better

he heavy, hot tears came as unexpectedly as they did fast. The child was reading well below grade level and, despite hours of intensive tutoring, wasn’t progressing as quickly as others in the small group. Educational testing confirmed what we suspected: the child was dyslexic. I have worked with kids for nearly 20 years and this would be the first time a student saw me cry. On this day, I witnessed the familiar cycle of avoidance, frustration and tears. I predicted the next step the student might take, withdrawal. The day’s reading lesson wasn’t as important as the student’s feelings of despair. I pulled the student aside and in a rare, candid moment, the student wailed, “What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I read? Why is everybody doing better than me?” We talked about what dyslexia meant. Silence, for what seemed like minutes, followed. Then came the words that I’ve often heard. On this day, though, they would break me. “Why didn’t anybody know? Why hasn’t anybody helped me before?” The child, eyes brimming, was stunned by my teary eyes and quivering voice as I managed to whisper, “I’m so sorry.” Years ago, I was somebody who didn’t know. I had pieces of knowledge but not enough access to the research of the science of reading. My work with struggling readers began with my training as a speech and language pathologist. However, it really became a passion when my own children couldn’t read. It propelled me to seek answers. The Simple View of Reading (Gough and Tunmer, 1986) states that reading is a product of word recognition skills (decoding) combined with oral language comprehension ability. We need to be able to instantly recognize a word and understand the meaning of those words for us to truly be a reader. It isn’t just about phonics. Through research and years of working with kids, I have discovered that readers may struggle for several reasons. They may have trouble decoding, comprehending or a mix of both. Students may experience reading problems because they are dyslexic, received poor instruction or lacked the experience of a language-rich environment, or any combination of these.

No matter what the reason for the reading difficulty, research concludes the treatment is the same: direct instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics and language skills. (Archer, 2010) The difference between helping a dyslexic vs non dyslexic student is often a matter of MORE. The student who is truly dyslexic needs more time and more intensive instruction. Usually, it is less complicated to remediate a decoding only deficit than a language comprehension deficit or a mixed. For example, most good readers can decode every word in the following excerpt from a BBC report. "…Australia failed to fully capitalise on the second-wicket stand of 182 between Smith and Finch, as Michael Clarke’s men were stunted by the off-breaks of Ravichandran Ashwin and a curious collective failure against back-of-a-length bowling.” However, unless you have background knowledge and the vocabulary to know that this passage is referring to a game of cricket, you won’t gain much meaning from the text. Without that essential vocabulary and background knowledge about cricket, readers will not be able to use context clues or find the main idea of the passage.

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Instruction

PARENT ACADEMY

CONVENIENT FULL SERVICE COMMITMENT QUALITY VIRTUAL SERVICES AVAILABLE

MINDFULChoosing DISCOVERY STATION MDS ensures that your child receives a personalized learningSERVICES EDUCATIONAL CONVENIENT QUALITY

WE OFFER:

experience by certified educators.

FULL SERVICE

MDS instructors can assist SERVICES inVIRTUAL multiple subject areas ranging from prekindergarten through the college level.

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Subject Specific tutoring

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Summer Enrichment Programs

•

Virtual School Assistance

•

Test Preparation

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

We offer:

➢ Subject COMMITMENT Specific

tutoring AVAILABLE

➢ Summer Enrichment Programs Contact Info SERVICES CONSULTATION: ➢ Virtual School Phone:904-516-7368 Assistance MDS aims to support home education families in Email: ➢ Test any way they need, such as: mindfuldiscoverystation@gmail.com Preparation Website: mindfuldiscovery.net

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Organizational Systems Special Needs Strategies Curriculum Why ChooseDevelopment US? College/Career Planning

You are not another client at MDS, you are unique. We want to ensure each child and family receives a unique teaching-learning experience that results in academic and personal success. At your consultation, we take time to know your family’s goals and needs. This helps uslearning create anexperience individualizedby plan that works for MDS ensures that your child receives a personalized you, maximizes instructional time, and enhances retention.

Choosing certified educators.

Date

Course Title & Description

Time

October 6

A Journey Through Microsoft Teams Facilitated by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff Join us as we guide you on a tour through a Microsoft Teams classroom. Explore channels and tabs, view announcements, and see where assignments are shared.

7:00 pm

October 8

6:00 pm Connecting and Supporting Elementary Students with Blended Learning Facilitated by: DCPS Reading Specialist Parents and caregivers will gain a better understanding of the various blended learning platforms used with elementary students. We will share information on i-Ready, Achieve3000, Freckle, and Writing City.

mindfuldiscovery.net

My role as an advocate of “knowing better means doing better” fills me with hope that school administrators, teachers, and parents can bring this message to struggling readers: We know better now, and we can help you.

Michelle Vliek Owner, Reading Solutions, Inc Reading Solutions, Inc 3697 Crown Point Court Ste 2 Jacksonville, FL 32257 904-587-9191

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

WORLDGOLFIMAX.COM

World Golf Village | I-95 Exit 323 | St. Augustine

CMYK / .ai

October 27

Couponing Basics Facilitated by: Real $ense for Prosperity Know your prices and learn about the savings programs and available coupons offered in popular stores.

6:00 pm

The Basics of Starting Your Own Business, Part 1 Facilitated by: Parent Academy Parent Leader Hear from a local entrepreneur about how to create and organize a business plan, file the necessary paperwork for licensing and registering a business, as well as opening a business bank account.

7:00 pm

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) Facilitated by: HIPPY Staff HIPPY is a free grant program for parents and caregivers of children ages 2-5 years old. Everyone wants the best for their child(ren) and HIPPY is here to help! Join us to learn more about the HIPPY program’s curriculum, virtual home visits, parent support groups, and how we can support you as your child(ren)’s first teacher.

12:00 pm

PARENTING & ADVOCACY

How to Register for Voluntary Pre-K (VPK) Lottery Facilitated by: DCPS Early Childhood Staff Do you have a child who will be 4 years old by September 1, 2021? If so, join us for this LIVE session as district experts provide an informative walk-through of the required steps necessary to enter the VPK lottery. Registration begins January 2021. A limited number of spots will be offered to students next year.

6:00 pm

October 20

Best Practices for SAT Success in Math Facilitated by: DCPS Math Specialist Going back to school was different this year, but the SAT remains the same! Tune in to learn strategies on how to improve your student’s mathematics score on this college entry assessment. The use of College Board’s SAT Practice can help your student earn additional points!

6:00 pm

October 22

Understanding 3rd Grade Promotion Requirements Facilitated by: DCPS Reading Specialist Parents and caregivers will gain a better understanding of grade-level expectations, promotion requirements, third grade reading standards, and strategies to help their student at home.

6:00 pm

Minimum of 15 people

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12:00 pm

October 15

$10/Person CMYK / .ai

Interview Like a Pro! Facilitated by: Generation USA Participants will receive interview tips and learn how to highlight their own strengths and skills to help them standout from other applicants.

October 29

Private

Facebook “f ” Logo

October 20

7:00 pm

October 16

For More Information, Showtimes and Tickets:

Time

Understanding the Reading and Writing Sections of the SAT and ACT Assessments Facilitated by: DCPS Reading Specialist This course will review the basic components of the reading and writing SAT and ACT assessments. It will explain the different types of text, number of questions on each assessment, concordant score requirements, and test-taking strategies particular to each assessment.

mindfuldiscoverystation@gmail.com

Viewing Party

Course Title & Description

October 13

Thankfully, researchers of the science of reading offer guidance about improvement for each and every reader, no matter what their troubles. If your child is experiencing reading problems, don’t take a “wait and see” approach; get help. Meet with their teacher, ask questions. Find a tutor who has experience and knowledge about the science of reading. Learn more for yourself. A good place to start is the nonprofit organization, The Reading League, whose motto is “When we know better, we do better.”

Date

6:00 pm

MDS instructors can assist in multiple subject areas ranging from prekindergarten through the college level.

904-516-7368

PERSONAL & INDIVIDUAL GROWTH

M3: Models to Math Mastery Facilitated by: DCPS Math Specialist This course will focus on helping parents and caregivers understand the various strategies used in elementary school to support math standards and how these models support a student’s mastery of math from concept to application.

October 13

WHY CHOOSE US: You are not another client at MDS, you are unique. We want to ensure each child and family receives a unique teaching-learning experience that results in academic and personal success. At your consultation, we take time to know your family’s goals and needs. This helps us create an individualized plan that works for you, maximizes instructional time, and enhances retention.

OCTOBER COURSES

Date

Course Title & Description

Time

October 6

12:00 pm How to Become a DCPS Parent Leader Facilitated by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff The Parent Academy is always looking for great Parent Leaders! Parent Leaders support other parents, empower them, and advocate for the Parent Academy program, as we work together to support student achievement.

October 27

Know the Law Facilitated by: Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Specialist This course reviews Florida law and the consequences that will result from breaking them. This course focuses primarily on the most common mistakes teens make in middle and high school.

October 29

7:00 pm Cyberbullying: When Digital Drama Goes Too Far Facilitated by: DCPS Bullying Specialist With a record number of students spending more time on the internet combined with the increasing popularity of social media, the risk of cyberbullying is on the rise. Educate yourself on the signs of bullying, associated behaviors, and strategies for talking to your child(ren) about them.

6:00 pm

Past courses can be found on the Parent Academy Duval County Public Schools YouTube page. Follow us @ParentAcademyDuval or Tweet us @ParentAcadDCPS OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

National Virtual College Fair, Jax Goes to College Week begins Oct. 18 click the “Sign Up” button. Students should then review the list of registered institutions; select which colleges they're interested in and set a reminder to attend their live and interactive Zoom sessions.

This year, students and families will have the opportunity to travel to multiple universities and colleges without ever leaving their couch. The annual National College Fair will be virtual this year due to COVID-19 precautions and will take place on Sunday, Oct. 18.

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Both students and their families can register and find more info at www. virtualcollegefairs.org. The National College Fair is the first part of Jax Goes to College Week which runs from Oct. 18 – 23. With a different college-going theme each day, the week is designed to engage families, communities, school staff, and students in activities that promote college and career access and success said Bernadette Hardeman Strong, a district supervisor who helps coordinate the week every year.

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Hardeman Strong wants families to know that even though the annual fair is virtual this year, it still represents a great opportunity for college-going students to find the right fit for them. “These fairs offer juniors and seniors a chance to hear firsthand from those-inthe-know at hundreds of colleges and universities nearby, across the country, and around the world,” said Hardeman Strong. “The pandemic should not put a damper on students dreams to attend college. Find a college and apply.” Below are a few tips from Hardeman Strong and her colleagues on getting the most out of this experience: •

How do you register for the fair? Go to virtualcollegefairs.org and

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On the day of the fair, students should log in and Click the “Live Sessions” tab. They’ll see literally hundreds of sessions to choose from! Tip: Colleges located on the East Coast will offer their sessions towards the beginning of the fair while colleges on the West Coast will offer sessions towards the end. Students will also have an option to schedule one-on-one meetings with admissions representatives. What are the benefits of attending the virtual College Fair? Virtual fairs are designed to replicate much of the experience of in-person college fairs. They provide a dynamic, new digital meeting space for students no matter where they live or what their situation. Students can talk one on one with college admission counselors; attend live interactive sessions with college representatives; and attend workshops covering topics such as how to apply, financial aid, student life, and more. More than 600 colleges will be represented. What are some things collegebound juniors and seniors should be doing now? Collegebound juniors and seniors should focus on preparing themselves academically and financially. This includes: •

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

Enrolling in rigorous course work.

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Preparing and taking the SAT and/or ACT. Researching careers of interest and associated majors. Researching colleges and tracking application deadlines. Searching for scholarships. Remaining involved in extracurricular activities. Engaging in service to the community. Seeking out leadership opportunities. Building a portfolio that includes their resume and recommendation letters; and much more. Determining what questions, they need to ask college admission officers. Questions can be framed around academics; cost of attendance and financial aid; the application process; career preparation and job recruitment; support for English language learners; support for students with disabilities; social life and campus activities; retention and graduation rates; and preventative measures that are in place as it relates to COVID. Creating a list of vital questions to ask college representatives will help students maximize their experience at college fairs.

Sunday, October 18, 2020: NACAC College Fair (Virtual): Start your college search for free at a NACAC National College Fair near you. National College Fair is a program of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). Register to attend a virtual fair at https:// virtualcollegefairs.org/events

Monday, October 19, 2020: Get Ready…Get Set…College: Kick off the week with college decorating. Set the atmosphere by decorating your classroom, or encourage students to create college pennants or digital banners/filters to display on campus or in their online classroom. Tuesday, October 20, 2020: Careers on Wheels: Invite professionals to speak to students about different occupations (virtual visit). Wednesday, October 21, 2020: Vision Board: Vision boards are an amazing tool that helps keep you motivated and determined to meet your goals and make your future real. Create digital versions of vision boards using the tools of your choice. PowerPoint is most likely the best due to the ease of accessibility, but if you are savvy and know of other programs, USE! Also, a digital version allows you to carry it with you wherever you go and regularly reflect on your progress. Thursday, October 22, 2020: I Have Big Dreams: Students are encouraged to dress to impress today. Students can either dress as their future career or dress as if they were going to an interview. Or students can write their future career and name on a nametag to wear and show others what they want to do when they grow up. Friday, October 23, 2020: Rep Your College: Students will get a chance to talk with local alums representing different colleges. Teachers and students can dress in their favorite college gear.

Duval County School Board to Host Community Meetings Around Future Vision for Schools To gather feedback from the community about the future vision of Duval schools, the Duval County School Board will host a series of in-person and virtual community meetings, with the first one set for Monday, Oct. 5 at Raines High School. The purpose is to develop a strategic plan for the school district, a document that outlines the concrete priorities, values, and goals that will guide the district for the next several years. But this plan cannot be completed without first understanding the thoughts of the community. “To be true partners in education, board members need the opportunity to engage with all members of our community so we can understand their collective vision for our schools,” said Board Chair Warren A. Jones. “Only with our community’s feedback can we develop a strategic plan that honors the values of our community.” For example, says Jones, members of the community can provide the Board with direction on where to focus resources whether it’s investment in

things like new technology or new programs. Can't make the meetings in October? Don't worry, more will be scheduled later this school year. This includes opportunities for remote, online participation. Visit dcps.duvalschools.org for the links to the virtual meetings. All members of the community are invited to join at one of the meetings below. Note that face coverings will be required, and social distancing will be implemented. October Meetings Monday, October 5; 6 – 8pm; William M. Raines High School Thursday, October 8; 6 – 8pm; Virtual Session Wednesday, October 14; 6 – 8pm; Alimacani Elementary School Thursday, October 15; 6 – 8pm; Virtual Session Monday, October 19; 6 – 8pm; Edward H. White High School Monday, October 26; 6 – 8pm; Virtual Session Thursday, October 29; 6 – 8pm; Greenland Pines Elementary School

National Principals Month #ThankAPrincipal October is National Principals Month. What Is National Principals Month? Through visionary leadership and tireless pursuit of success for each student, principals guide and support their schools in ways large and small every day. And as we faced new challenges presented by COVID-19, our principals came through when it mattered most. National Principals Month honors their

dedication and thanks them for all they’ve done. #ThankAPrincipal Send an eCard, a few words of appreciation go a long way with our hard-working school leaders, and it’s free and easy to do! https://www.principalsmonth.org/ecards/

Bullying Prevention – Five Things to Know Report, not respond.

are important to understand – One, the behavior is repeated over time. Two, the behavior includes intentional hurtful words and/or actions. Three, there is a real or perceived imbalance of power.

This is one of the key messages that Heather Watson wants Duval students and families to know. As the district’s Bullying Prevention specialist for the past seven years, Watson says she has seen incidents de-escalate and solved based on quick reporting. The opposite is also true.

3. Avoid responding, engaging – Whether it’s in-person or cyberbullying, engaging directly with the bullying behavior can cause the incident to escalate. Her recommendations to students:

“If students or parents have concerns, we always encourage them to reach out first to their school administrators immediately,” said Watson. “In situations where the concerning incident has taken place in a virtual format, they should take a screenshot and submit the information to the school to assist with follow-up and investigation.” 4. In honor of Bullying Prevention Month, Watson shared five important points that families and students should know about bullying prevention. 1. Bullying and conflicts between individuals are two different things – Bullying is negative behavior directed by someone exerting power and control over another person. A conflict is a disagreement or argument in which both sides express their views. 2. There are three core elements in bullying behavior, and they

• Tell an adult • Save the evidence (In cyberbullying cases, take screenshots) • Do not respond • Report what is taking place. Incidents of bullying need to be reported – Bullying reports can be made at the school that your child attends as well as via phone to 904-390-2255. In addition, reports can be filed via email or texted to 390Call@ duvalschools.org.

5. Wear orange to show your support – Show your support for Bully Prevention by participating in Unity Day on October 21, 2020. Learn more by visiting the PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center website.

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

Clay County School News

Social-Emotional Learning Priorities Recognizing that Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is critical in maximizing student success and engagement, Clay County School District is committed to increasing understanding and awareness of SEL and its positive impact on overall student outcomes. Sense of Wellness: Wellness is a dynamic process that fosters healthy habits that teach and promote physical, emotional, and psychological health. Encouraging change and growth in these multiple dimensions of a student’s experience has a positive impact on learning and health. Sense of Connectedness: Student motivation, drop out rates, and academic performance are correlated with feelings of belonging. When students have a sense of connectedness, their engagement and self-efficacy are improved. Fostering connectedness and belonging promotes and enables classroom learning.

or others. Every student has the opportunity to improve upon responsible decision making skills. Youth Mental Health First Aid (K-12) Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) is a globally recognized training that increases knowledge and awareness of the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges. Enhanced understanding provides bridges to relationship building among students and staff. Buddy Bench (K-6) A buddy bench is where a student can go when he or she feels lonely. Clay County Schools want every student to feel included and have friends in school by promoting an inclusive school community and social awareness.

Education First (EDFIRST) Half-Cent Sales Tax for Schools Clay County’s schools are in need of repairs. Old, outdated classrooms, inadequate science labs, leaking roofs, air conditioners that constantly break down, portables crowding out playgrounds, students eating lunch at 10:00 in the morning—the evidence is everywhere. With the majority of schools at 50 years or older, more than $318 million in facility renovations has been identified as needed right now as well as an additional $300 million in new schools to meet anticipated growth in the next 5-10 years.

Students need schools that are safe, updated, comfortable and promote learning. That’s why ED.F.I.R.S.T. HalfCent for Schools will be on the ballot Cyber-civility (K-12) in November 2020. It’s a restricted use Encouraging the use of social media and other digital formats in a responsi- half cent sales tax that would raise ble, respectful manner that allows stu- money to revitalize local schools and dents to communicate freely and share can only be used for capital improveSense of Safety: Students need an ideas without the threat of intimidation, ment projects listed in the referendum. That means renovating and remodelenvironment that feels safe and supharassment, or abuse. ing classrooms, science labs, media portive to learn. Creating a climate of Alcohol Literacy Challenge & centers and other spaces; replacing safety and respect encourages effecStudent Assistance Program (SAP) and repairing deteriorating roofs, air tive instruction and academic growth. (7-12) conditioners and other items; replacing To focus on these SEL priorities, the Programs focused on helping student portables with permanent classrooms; following programs and initiatives are develop personal, interpersonal, and and other improvements to our existing some of the many that are utilized at resistance skills that can prevent risk schools. schools throughout the district. taking behaviors. Clay County District Schools has Safety Assessment & Intervention; 30/60/90 (K-12) become a preferred district. Funding S.O.S.; Start with Hello; Say SomeChecking in with students new to the is needed to build new schools due to thing (K-12) school at 30-day intervals through the expected growth in student enrollment Sandy Hook Promise Foundation first three months as a way to strength- over the next decade. Doing so will Programs teach students and staff how en connectedness to the school also relieve potential overcrowding to identify, intervene and get help for community and support their academic in schools. Ultimately, the goal is to individuals before they hurt themselves success. ensure that we have safe, updated, and high-quality learning environments for all Clay County District School students!

Clay County School District October 2020 Calendar Thursday Thursday Friday

October 1, 6pm October 22 October 23

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

School Board Meeting End First Grading Period Planning Day/Student Holiday

Why a Half Cent Sales Tax? Decision-makers in Tallahassee have cut facilities funding to local schools by

more than $168 million during the last ten years. Due to these cuts, the district hasn’t been able to do much more than put a very small bandage on the problem. The half-cent sales tax is the only option available to Florida school districts for raising the amount of money needed to revitalize existing schools, relieve overcrowding, and properly maintain facilities over the long run. More than twenty Florida districts already have a voter approved sales tax for facilities. If it’s approved here, the half cent would raise the existing sales tax in Clay County to 7.5 cents. The half-cent would cost the average Clay County family about $5 PER $1000 SPENT — to ensure Clay County is relevant, prepared for expected growth, and has updated facilities to benefit our students, neighborhoods, and county for years to come! Safety and Security Most of our schools were designed and built long before security became such an important consideration. The district has made many safety related improvements such as fencing, gates, locked doors, cameras and other items; however, more needs to be done including limiting access to our campuses. That will take a lot more resources than is available and certainly much more than the state has provided. In fact, Safe Schools funding from the state wasn’t even enough to cover the cost of having a full-time school resource officer/deputy in every school! That’s why safety and security improvements are at the top of the Half-Cent for Schools ballot language. The Clay County School District wants to ensure that teachers and students can focus on their primary mission—teaching and learning!

www.oneclay.net OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD (904) 284-6584

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St. Johns County

School District News

INK! (Investing in Kids) honors local teachers and students with Make a Mark awards, nominations now open INK!'s (Investing in Kids) Make a Mark Award campaign is currently underway as a special recognition program in partnership with a local business and key sponsor, Tutoring Club of St. Johns. The program honors teachers in St. Johns County public schools who encourage students to make positive advancements in school and their communities. To nominate a teacher, visit the website and submission form at https://ink-stjohns.org/make-a-mark. As the 501(c)(3) direct support organization, INK! leads efforts to benefit educators and students of the St. Johns County, Fla. public school district.

parents, colleagues, friends, and community business partners. Winners will receive a gift basket of prizes including a free assessment and one-month complimentary tutoring for a student of their choice from Tutoring Club of St. Johns. For more information about the program and nominations, view the program video at https://youtu.be/urVA_egwut8. Contact David “Davey” Hartzel, INK!’s Director of Fund Development at 904-547-7120 or email David. Hartzel@stjohns.k12.fl.us.

Disability History and Awareness Weeks On June 13, 2008, Governor Crist signed into law Senate Bill 856. The bill, called “Disability History and Awareness Instruction,” requires school districts to designate the first two weeks of October as Disability History and Awareness Weeks. The bill also encourages schools to provide information about disability history and promote the awareness of the contributions of individuals with disabilities.

One of every five Americans is a person with a disability. A person may be born with a disability. A person may acquire a disability through an accident or illness. A person may acquire a disability simply as a part of growing older. Despite the fact that disability is a natural part of life, people with disabilities have not INK! provides innovative programs and class“Educators work so hard to ensure their room resources to support academic success always had access to equal opportunities. Not until 1975, with the passage of the federal students’ success,” said Donna Lueders, INK! for all St. Johns County public schools. The Education for All Handicapped Children Act, did Executive Director. “This year is especially office is located at 1 Christopher St. in St. school- aged children with disabilities have a difficult because teachers are expected to Augustine. Founded in 1991, Tutoring Club is instruct both in class and virtually simultanean education center which provides long-term, right to a free appropriate public education. ously.” individualized academic assistance to students of all ages and abilities, from early learning to Florida started the first special education class “When a teacher invests in their students, they college preparation. The business is located at in 1926 in Jacksonville. Since 1926, specially can inspire them to persevere and not give up. 605 State Rd. 13 - Suite 109 in St. Johns, Fla. A teacher will be chosen each month beginFor more information about INK!, contact Donning Sunday, November 1 until Sunday, May na Lueders at 904-547-7120 or email Donna. 30, 2021. Those selected will demonstrate Lueders@stjohns.k12.fl.us. Visit the website at an ability to go above and beyond the call of www.ink-stjohns.org. The St. Johns County School District is taking duty,” said Donna Lueders, INK! Executive Diadvantage of Microsoft’s Advantage program rector. Each winner is nominated by students, which gives students and teachers access to the latest full version of Microsoft Office at home at no additional cost. Microsoft Student Advantage gives students Office 365 ProPlus (a full version of Office) and allows them to Beginning Wednesday, October 14 dismissal areas such as corridors, cafetoriums, and times on Wednesdays will be adjusted in media centers during an additional unoccupied use Office apps on 5 mobile devices. order to provide additional time for teachers period. The Office 365 ProPlus subscription license to develop and enhance your child’s instrucThe total time in school each week continues includes: tion. Though this may cause you to make to exceed the required instructional minutes adjustments in your family’s schedule, this is set by the state. Each school will communicate • Office 365 ProPlus for PC (2016 – Word, an important opportunity for teachers many any specific changes that may be necessary Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Access, Pubwho teach both brick and mortar and distance or unique to their school. lisher, Outlook, Lync, InfoPath) • Office 365 ProPlus for Mac (2016 – Word, learning students. There will be a 50-minute adjustment to dismissal on Wednesdays. Middle schools will release at 12:00 pm, St. Johns County October 2020 Elementary and K-8 Academies will release at 12:55 pm, and High Schools will release at 2 School Calendar pm. This 50-minute adjustment also provides Follow us on Twitter Tuesday, October 13, 2020.....School Board Meeting at 6pm vis WebEx the ability to allocate each school’s mainte@StJohnsCountySD Friday, October 30, 2020.........First Quarter Ends nance/custodial team to sanitize high traffic

designed instruction and related services have expanded throughout Florida. Now, approximately 401,700 students identified with disabilities are participating in Florida’s public education and are graduating and going on to postsecondary education or employment. In St. Johns County, over 7,000 students are identified as students with disabilities. We are proud to participate in promoting awareness of disability history and contributions of individuals with disabilities. At the regular school board meeting on October 13, 2020, I will ask that the board adopt a resolution to designate the first two weeks in October 2020 as Disability History and Awareness Weeks. Thank you for helping us raise awareness of the abilities of all persons and for sharing this information with other family members. Should you need further information, please contact us at (904) 547-7672.

Office 365 Student & Teacher Advantage Program

Adjusted Wednesday Dismissal Times

Connect on Facebook @St Johns County School District

Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) • Office Mobile for iPhone/Android (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Lync) • Office Mobile for iPad (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) • Students and teachers must log in to Office 365 using their STJOHNS USER-ID and Password. Students who are not already using a STJOHNS account may contact their homeroom or classroom teacher to obtain their account information. Teachers should use their existing network login credentials to gain access to the program. Once the student has obtained the username and password, they can access their Office 365 ProPlus account at http://login.microsoftonline.com. Some restrictions apply. Visit https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/ for more details.

Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

TEENS

2020 National Teen Driver Safety Week

1. Don’t Drive Impaired. Set a good example by not driving after drinking or consuming marijuana or other impairing substances. Remind your teen that drinking before the age of 21 is illegal, and alcohol and/or marijuana and driving should never mix. 2. Buckle Up — Every Trip. Every Time. Everyone — Front Seat and Back. If Be Empowered! you wear your seat belt every time you’re • Remind your teen driver that driving is a in the car (including in taxis and privilege, not a right. ride-sharing services), your teen is more • They are living under your roof and need to likely to follow suit. follow the rules. 3. Eyes on the Road, Hands on the Wheel. • Talk to your teen driver about driving laws. All the Time. Require your young driver to • These discussions may feel tiresome, but put their phones away when they are on your teen is listening and depends on you the road. Other passengers, audio and to set and enforce the rules. climate controls, and eating or drinking • Become familiar with your state’s nightwhile driving can also be distractions. time driving, passenger, and graduated Know your state’s law regarding mobile driver licensing (GDL) restrictions. phone and texting while driving restric• Practice constant communication about tions. safe driving skills. 4. Obey All Posted Speed Limits. Speeding • Set an example with your own safe driving is especially dangerous for teens who habits. lack the experience to react to changing • Talk to your teen about safe cell phone use circumstances around their cars. while in the car. 5. Limit Passengers. With each passenger in the vehicle, your teen’s risk of a fatal Know the Facts about Teen Driver Fatalities crash increases. • Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the Engage in Safe Driving Conversations United States. Year-Round • In 2018, 2,121 people were killed in Start the conversation with your teen about crashes involving a teen driver; 719 of safe driving habits during National Teen Driver those deaths were the teen driver. Safety Week, but continue the conversation • Talk with them about some of the biggest every day throughout the year. driving risks for teens, including: à Impaired Driving: In 2018 16% of teen Get creative! Write your teen a letter, send drivers involved in fatal crashes had email or text reminders, leave sticky note alcohol in their system. Remind your reminders in the car, or use social media to teen that driving under the influence of get your message across. any impairing substance could have deadly consequences. Get it in writing. Create a parent-teen driving à Seat Belts: In 2018, almost half (45%) contract that outlines the rules and conseof the teen passenger vehicle drivers quences for your teen driver and hang it in a who died were unbuckled. visible place as a constant reminder. à Distracted Driving: In 2018, almost If you and your teen are going somewhere 10% of teen drivers involved in fatal together, let your teen drive. crashes were reported as distracted at the time of the crash. Finally, If your teen is having a difficult time à Speeding: In 2018, more than following the rules, it may be time to take one-quarter (28%) of all teen drivers of away the keys and review the basics. Safe passenger vehicles involved in fatal teen drivers can mean the difference between crashes were speeding at the time of life and death — for themselves, their the crash. passengers, and other people on the road. j à Passengers: Research shows that the risk of a fatal crash goes up dramatically healthychildren.org in direct relation to the number of passengers in a car. ational Teen Driver Safety Week is October 18-24. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration wants to help you talk to your teen drivers about the importance of safe driving habits with these important areas of focus.

Remember the Rules of the Road

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 20

Things to Do Teens Events

Live Virtual UNF Campus Tours October 2, 16, 30, 3pm Virtual campus tours are a great way to explore the University of North Florida’s campus from home. Your virtual campus tour will be led by a knowledgeable and friendly Swoop Squad member (tour guide), a currently enrolled student at UNF. They are ready to share with you their passion and experiences while covering the academic programs, campus resources, and student life at UNF. Free, but please sign up in advance. University of North Florida / 904- 620-1183 / www.unf.edu National Virtual College Fairs October 12, 1pm – 9pm October 18, 12noon – 8pm Learn about more than 600 colleges from across the country and around the world at each Fair. Sign up in advance at virtualcollegefairs.org. The registration you provide will be shared with the colleges that you participate with during the Fair. Research participating colleges and make a plan in advance and allow plenty of time to participate. Each college will be offering live and interactive Zoom sessions on topics such as how to apply, financial aid, student life and more. You can schedule one on one meetings with admissions representatives during the Fair. You must select the specific day and time for these one on one meetings. Colleges will also be offering Q & A sessions. www.virtualcollegefairs.com MakerLab for Teens October 14, 4:30pm to 5:30pm If you love to take raw materials like plastic, fabric, cardboard or paper and turn them into tools, clothing, instruments or structures, come to MakerLab for teens. Get inspired by a book, then get creative. Free event for ages 12 to 17. Registration is required for this event, and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card is required for registration. Attendance is limited to 40 participants. Your Zoom name must match your registration name for you to be admitted to the program. A link to the Zoom meeting room will be sent 1 hour prior to the event. Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org

Things to Do

PETS Crafting Candy Corn for Teens October 22, 4:15pm to 5:15pm Teens ages 11-18 are invited to join Ms. Maribeth to create a candy corn craft using buttons. This is an online event. All supplies are provided and will be sent to the branch location of your choice for pick-up. Signup by Thursday, October 15 to guarantee supplies will arrive at your designated branch on time. This program will be hosted in Zoom and registration is required. Sign up online or email mwood@sjcfl.us to register. Please register each teen individually if using online form or by emailing. Access will be emailed to you a couple days prior to the event. St. Johns County Public Library / 904-8276940 / mwood@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Virtual Test Prep at UNF October 24, 8am to 12noon The University of North Florida invites Duval County high school students to sign up for the free SAT/ACT preparation sessions offered virtually by UNF. These events equip students for success on the standardized tests that are often a requirement for college or university admission. Test Prep at UNF will be held virtually during the Fall of 2020 using the Zoom platform. Advanced registration is required. University of North Florida / 904-620-2420 / j.castin@unf.edu / www.unf.edu Writing Wednesdays: A Workshop Series *Virtual* October 28, 2pm to 3pm Join tutors from the Library and Learning Commons for a series of WebEx workshops designed to help students improve their academic and professional writing skills. This is a virtual event, held online. This month’s workshop is Citation Success: Use MLA and APA Like a Pro. Join the South Campus Writing Lab to talk about APA7 and MLA8. Need help with in-text citations? How to best incorporate quotes? Format your paper and write the perfect Works Cited page? Join FSCJ staff and get all the tips. Bring your questions to perfect your paper. FSCJ / 904- 633-8100 / www.fscj.edu

Why You Should Never Trim Your Dog's or Cat's Whiskers B

ecause as humans we tend to view body hair as a part of our anatomy that can or should be cut or shaved off, or endlessly fiddled with (e.g., combed, brushed, washed, dyed, curled, straightened, styled, etc.), we tend to feel similarly about the hair that sprouts all over our pets’ bodies. However, nothing could be further from the truth.

sheath. Vibrations picked up by the hair are then magnified by the blood-filled sinus and transferred by the nerves to provide the brain with specific information about the dog’s surroundings

Dogs do not even have to make physical contact with surfaces to know where they are. Their whiskers serve as an early warning Body hair, regardless of the body it grows on, device that helps prevent colliding with walls is there for a reason. And while modern and objects, and they also keep approaching lifestyles make it possible for humans to do objects from damaging the dog’s face and pretty much whatever they like with their own eyes. It has been recorded that each one of hair with little or no consequence, this isn’t the the individual vibrissae can be mapped to a case with dogs and cats — especially when it specific location in the dog’s brain, suggesting comes to the hair on their furry little faces. the importance of the sensory information being received from these hairs.” Your dog and cat’s whiskers - aka vibrissae - are actually sensory organs, meaning they Studies have observed how a dog’s brain serve a purpose beyond being adorable. Each responds to its sense of feeling. Of the areas one of these long, stiff, widely spaced hairs of the brain that register touch, nearly 40 grows from its own specialized hair follicle. percent of that area is solely touch information from the face. Of that 40 percent, an extremely These unique follicles are implanted three large part comes from the upper jaw, where times as deeply as ordinary hair follicles and the vibrissae are located. contain nerve endings that are sensitive to both touch and vibration. The structure of dog Further, it has been recorded that each one of whiskers is very similar to cat whiskers. the individual vibrissae can be mapped to a specific location in the dog’s brain, suggesting Whiskers transmit important information to the importance of the sensory information your dog’s brain. According to Andrea Cooper, being received from these hairs.” writing for the Pet Massage Training & Research Institute: In a recently published German study, co-authors concluded that cutting dogs’ “When the whisker senses a nearby object, whiskers causes considerable harm. “Trimthe vibrations from it travel down the hair to ming the vibrissae constitutes a temporary the follicle. The tactile hair follicle has a amputation. By disabling a sensory organ, the blood-filled cavity between the outer and the animal suffers from temporary physical inner layers of the follicle lining, or dermal damage representing considerable harm. j sheath. Dr. Karen Shaw Becker healthypets.mercola.com Many nerves pierce the external dermal sheath and branch into the inner dermal

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Teen events.

– Winston S. Churchill

Pet Events

Step Up for Pups • Thru November 19 Step up, donate, and save a life. Together with the Bow Wow Buddies Foundation, Camp Bow Wow is hosting the Step Up For Pups walking challenge. Funds raised will support the foundation, which provides financial assistance to offset high veterinary costs for families who have hit upon hard times and rescue groups or shelters with a dog in need of life-saving medical care. To join, download the #WoofTrax App and join the challenge to log your walks. Complete 20 walks with your dog from now to November 19. Participants will be entered to win the grand prize of 20 days of Day Care OR a $500 donation to the shelter or rescue of your choice. Plus, every week you log at least 3 walks you’ll earn a chance to win one of the weekly prizes. Bow Wow Buddies Foundation / bwbuddiesfoundation@cbwcorp.com / www.bowwowbuddies.com

days, so there are multiple opportunities to show off your costuming and fewer people on the store at once. Stop in anytime between October 23 and October 25 in costume and have your dogs photo taken. Judges will select winners in multiple categories for prizes. Categories include funniest costumes, human and dog, most creative, best homemade, and Facebook’s biggest fan. Winners will be announced on October 31. Woof Gang Bakery Fleming Island / 904602-7892 / 1960 East-West Pkwy, Ste 107, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / woofgangflemingisland.com

Free Adoption Event October 24-25, 10am to 5pm Join JHS for free adoptions on all Saturday, October 24th & Sunday, October 25th from 10am to 5pm. Appointments are required in order to adopt. All appointments must be made online and in advance. Masks are required and you are asked to please practice social distancing with staff, volunteers, and other community members. All animals will be spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccines. Additional fees may Level 1 Basic Obedience Class apply. The Jacksonville Humane Society / October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5, 904-725-8766 / 8464 Beach Blvd, Jackson7:15pm to 8:15pm Camp Bow Wow hosts a Level 1 Basic Obedi- ville, FL 32216 / www.jaxhumane.org ence Class. The 6 week class meets once a week. Behaviors taught include eye contact, Repticon Jacksonville October 31 - November 1, 10am to 4pm sit, leave it, walking on a loose leash, down, Repticon returns to Jacksonville with social sit/stay, drop it, coming when called, sit for distancing measures in place. Repticon petting, wait, and lure walking. Dogs must be 4 months and up, and must be up to date Jacksonville is one of Repticon’s fastest growing shows and will be packed with a on all vaccines. Cost is $160, which covers large selection of reptiles and exotic pets, pet the whole 6 weeks. Space is limited. products, reptile themed-merchandise, and Camp Bow Wow / 904-732-9663 / 8505 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / reptile-related fun. One day tickets are $10 (Adult), $5 (Ages 5-12), ages 4 and under www.campbowwow.com are free. Two day tickets and VIP Tickets are also available. Tickets are available online ShotVet Pet Clinics only; no tickets will be sold at the door. All October 10, 11, 24, 25 Low cost pet vaccinations, given by licensed guest tickets will be pre-sold in two-hour increments. Guests will have access to the veterinarians. No appointments are necesshow during the specific two hours for which sary. they purchased tickets only. There will be Bruster's Ice Cream -- October 11, 25, a brief shut-down period after each two11:30am to 12:30pm hour block, during which the room will be Tires Plus -- October 10, 24, 10am to 11am cleared of guests, and vendors will have the Starbucks -- October 11, 25, 2pm to 3pm opportunity to clean and sanitize their booths. ShotVet / www.shotvet.com Every person in the show must wear a cloth Bruster's Ice Cream / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, or surgical mask at all times. Guests without Jacksonville, FL 32225 Tires Plus / 13162 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville a face covering will be denied entry. Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex / 863-268FL 32225 Starbucks / 13315 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, 4273 / 3605 Philips Hwy., Jacksonville, FL 32207 / repticon.com FL 32225 Halloween Costume Contest for Dogs October 23-25, 9am to 7pm This year in order to encourage social distancing, the event will be held over three

Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

OCTOBER 2020 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

THINGS TO DO

FALL FESTIVALS AND HALLOWEEN EVENTS Haunt Nights, featuring haunted attractions, such as Dark Fables and Payn Manor. The event starts the first weekend in October and runs through October 31st with select operating dates and hours. Not intended for children 12 and under, or the faint of heart. Tickets start at $19.99. Adventure Landing, Beaches / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.hauntnights.com

Holiday's Pumpkin Patch Open Every Day, 8am-6pm. Pumpkins, mums, tropicals and potted plants in fall colors! 3 locations: Jax Beach Plant Nursery & PUMPKIN PATCH 510 Shetter Ave. Jax Beach, FL 32250 NOCATEE PUMPKIN PATCH 13601 Philips Hwy Jacksonville, FL 32256 San Marco Plant Nursery & PUMPKIN PATCH 4434 Hendricks Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32 Holiday's Nursery Landscaping / 904-448-1208 / holidaysofjax.com Pumpkin Patch at Mandarin UMC Thru October 31 Pumpkin patch at Mandarin UMC. The pumpkin patch is a fundraiser for the youth that enables them to take part in mission projects and other youth activities. There are many photo opportunities as well. Open Monday-Saturday, 9am – 9pm and Sundays, 11am - 9pm. Mandarin United Methodist Church / 904-268-5549 / 11270 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.mumc.net Amazing Grace Crop Maze & Pumpkin Patch • Fridays: October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 5pm to 10pm • Saturdays: October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 10am to 10pm Amazing Grace Crop Maze provides family fun on the farm in Clay County. Attractions include pumpkin patch, corn maze, farm animals, barnyard ball zone & more. Admission is $15.95 for ages 3 and up. Includes farm admission, and access to all attractions. Amazing Grace Crop Maze / 904-284-2949 / 2899 Wisteria Farms Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.agcropmaze.com Haunt Nights Select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays October 2-31 As Northeast Florida’s premier Haunt since 2009, Haunt Nights at Adventure Landing offers haunted house enthusiasts and North Florida residents a thrill they won’t forget.

Falling into Fun Day • October 3, 10am Conner's A-Maize-ing Acres celebrates fall with a Falling into Fun Day. The event is by reservation only. Admission includes all regular activities except Corn Cannon, pumpkins & horseback rides. The last person will be admitted at 8pm. Conner’s A-Maize-ing Acres / 904-879-5453 / 19856 County Road 121, Hilliard, FL 32046 / connerscornmaze.com Sykes and Cooper Farms Corn Maze Fridays, Saturday, and Sundays October 3-25 Admission tickets include the following attractions: Corn Maze, Hayride, Playgrounds, Cow Milking Station, Duck Races, Cow Train, Corn Box, Teeter Totter and Farm Animals. Pumpkins, Sunflowers, and any other items from the pumpkin barn sold separately. Sykes and Cooper Farms / 904-692-1370 / 5995 Brough Rd, Elkton, FL 32033 / sycofarms.com Flashlight Maze and Nighttime Wagon Rides • October 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, & 24 Dark till 10pm Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres hosts nighttime wagon rides and a nighttime trip through the maze. Be sure to bring your own flashlight. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The last hayrides leaves at 9pm. Flashlight maze included in your regular admission. Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres / 904-879-5453 / 19856 County Road 121, Hilliard, FL 32046 / connerscornmaze.com Spooky Trivia Night: Zoom Event October 7, 7pm to 8pm The St. Johns County Public Library hosts a free online event featuring Halloween and everything spooky. Join library staff for this family friendly trivia night on Zoom. Contact Will at mpate@sjcfl.us for issues with Zoom links and questions. Registration is required. St. Johns County Public Library / 904-8276940 / sjcpls.org Pumpkin Patch at Isle of Faith UMC October 10 – 31 Pumpkin Patch Open Daily October 10 thru October 31. Hours are Monday thru Friday 12noon - 7pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am - 7pm. Entry is free, and prices vary on the pumpkins. There are special events at the patch, including Opening Day, Trick or Treat Day, Family Photo Day, and more.

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Isle of Faith UMC / 904-221-1700 / 1821 San Pablo Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / iofumc.org Spooktacular Halloween Kids Event October 10, 11am to 2pm Jacksonville Business Connections hosts the Spooktacular Halloween Kids Event, at the Elite Smiles Dentistry World Golf Village. The free event will include a limited supply of prebagged bags of candy, vendors, food trucks, music, and more. Elite Smiles Dentistry / 904-201-9590 / 3043 International Golf Pkwy, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.jacksonvillebusinessconnections.com Halloween Doors Safari October 11 – 18 Pumpkin Patch at Shepherd of the Woods October 14 - October 31 at 2pm Hours are: Monday - Friday 9:30am - 12noon & 4pm - 7pm Saturday - 10am - 7pm Sunday 11am - 7pm Note: Teens can earn community service hours by volunteering at the Pumpkin Patch. Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church and School / 904-641-8385 / 6595 Columbia Park Court, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / sotwjax.com Shepherd of the Woods Pumpkin Patch October 14 - 31 The Shepherd of the Woods Pumpkin Patch is held at their 40-acre wooded lakeside location in Mandarin. There will be pumpkins, photo ops, and a maze for kids to play in. Admission is free and the patch is open to the community. Proceeds from the pumpkin patch go directly to support missions – not the church budget. Please wear a mask while at the patch. SOTW Pumpkin Patch hours are as follows: Monday - Friday 9:30am - 12noon & 4pm - 7pm Saturday - 10am - 7pm Sunday 11am - 7pm Note: Teens can earn community service hours by volunteering at the

Pumpkin Patch. Shepherd of the Woods Church / 904-6418385 / 6595 Columbia Park Ct, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / http://www.sotwjax.com Halloween Doors & More Drive-In Movie Experience • October 15 – 17 Halloween Doors & More presents three days of classic family movies. Be sure to purchase your admission in advance and, though not required, children and adults are encouraged to wear costumes and decorate your cars. This year’s theme, “Safari Life,” will offer creativity in costuming like no other. Halloween Doors & More raises funds for Community PedsCare, Community Hospice & Palliative Care's pediatric program, while delivering a memorable experience for First Coast families. Tickets are $25/movie, or $75 for all four movies. Admission is good for one car. Monsters, Inc. - Thursday, October 15, 7:30pm Toy Story - Friday, October 16, 7:30pm Monsters, Inc. - Saturday, October 17, 4pm Hocus Pocus - Saturday, October 17, 7:30pm Jacksonville Fairgrounds / 904-886-3883 / 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.communityhospice.com Fear Trails October 17, 23, 24, 30, 31, 7pm Fear Trails is Florida’s newest outdoor haunted experience. For five nights only the gates to the Fear Trails will be opened. Step lively on the worn dirt path winding through the pine trees and watch your back for all nature has to offer. Legend has it the woodlands and pine trees milled by old man Peabody are haunted and when night falls the forest comes to life and no one is safe. This active timber farm is equipped with a fully functioning Sawmill. At night, legend has it the equipment starts on its own and sounds of saws and the lumberjacks can be heard all over the farm. All ages that want to be scared are welcome but the experience is a 13+ experience. Trails are not wheelchair friendly. Tickets are $25 - $30. Amelia Shotgun Sports / 904-548-

FALL FESTIVALS & PUMPKIN PATCHES

9818 / 86300 Hot Shot Trail, Yulee, FL 32097 / ameliashotgunsports.com Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres: Farm Heritage Day • October 24, 10am to 8pm Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres hosts a Farm Heritage Day. There will be old fashioned county fair farm games & exhibits from 11am to 3pm. All the regular farm attractions will be open as well. Admission to the farm is by appointment only. Conner’s A-Maize-ing Acres / 904-879-5453 / 19856 County Road 121, Hilliard, FL 32046 / connerscornmaze.com Halloween Express Train Rides October 24 and 31, 10am 12noon, 2pm Ride the rails through woodlands and marshlands to the mainstage where Halloween creatures compete to see who shall rule over Halloween. Entertainment abounds throughout the train ride. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Trains depart at 10am, 12noon, and 2pm each Saturday. Tickets are $14 for kids 12 and under and $20 for adults. St. Marys Railroad / 912-729-1103 / 1000 Osborne Street, St. Marys, GA 31558 / www.stmarysrailroad.com Halloween's Haunted History October 28, 6pm to 7pm Get ready for Halloween with “GhostHunters” TV star, Dustin Pari, as he presents “Halloween: A Haunted History.” In this lecture, Dustin sheds some light on the spooky shadows of Halloween history and lore. You will need to provide your own internet-connected device and a Zoom account to participate. Registration is required for this live Zoom video-conference event. St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / sjcpls@tblc.libanswers.com / sjcpls.org 1st Annual Haunted Halloween October 30, 7pm to 10pm The Veterans Village of Northeast Florida Inc. hosts their 1st Annual Haunted Halloween. Come in your best costume and enter to win the contest. There will also be games, complimentary appetizers, music, a dance contest, raffles and more. Tickets are $30. Funds raised will benefit The Veterans Village of Northeast Florida, an organization that aims to impact homelessness in the Military Veterans Community with a Tiny House community & resources for all veterans. The Hilltop / 904-680-4120 / sharon@vvnefl.org / 2030 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres: Haunted Trail October 30-31, 7pm to 10pm Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres hosts a Haunted Trail. This event is not recommended for children under 10 years of age. No flashlights will be allowed. Haunted Trail Prices are $20.

Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres / 904-879-5453 / 19856 County Road 121, Hilliard, FL 32046 / connerscornmaze.com Blu By U Farm Fall Festival October 31, 9am to 5pm On October 31, Blu By U Farm will be hosting their first annual Fall Festival. Visitors will be enjoying a variety of activities such as yard games, live music, food trucks, petting zoo, catch & release fishing, agriculture educational opportunities and more. The entrance fee for visitors is $5 per car. Due to limited parking, carpooling is highly recommended. Blu By U Farm / 904-465-1811 / 5571 Long Branch Road, Jacksonville, FL 32234 / www.blubyujax.com Monster Art Party October 31, 10am to 12noon Kids ages 6 to 10 are invited for a Monster Art Party. Come celebrate Halloween by drawing, painting, cutting, and gluing. Kids will draw and paint monster masks and make monster collages. Class cost is $35, which includes all supplies. Due to social distancing, the class is limited to 6 participants. Atlantic Beach Arts Market / 904-372-7442 / 1805 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / atlanticbeachartsmarket.com

Educator Appreciation Days at Ripley’s Thru October 18 Educator Appreciation days continue through October 18th at the St Augustine attractions. All educators and school personnel PreK - college level will be admitted free to Ripley’s Believe It or Not, the Red Express tour and Bayfront Mini Golf. Your guests will receive 50% off when they come with you. Educators will need to present their most recent pay stub and a matching photo ID for admission. Homeschool families will get one parent in free as the educator and will need to provide their letter of intent, or a letter from the district certifying them as a homeschool family, or an association card. Ripley's Believe It or Not! / 904-824-1606 / 19 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. ripleys.com Flight Fit N Fun Social Circle Thursdays, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 5pm - 8pm and Saturdays, October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 10am and 11am Social Circles, an innovative Flight program designed to promote physical distancing, includes private attraction time, incorporates hand sanitizing and provides an ultimate experience. You choose your group of friends and book an hour at Flight. Your group stays together with no intermingling of other groups at each attraction. Circles to choose from include Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, and Neptune, with different activities for each circle. Choose a group of 10 friends, starting at $199, or a group of 6, starting at $149. Available Thursday evenings from 5pm - 8pm, circles begin at 5pm; 6pm; and 7pm, and Saturday Morning: 10am & 11am. Flight Fit N Fun / 904-551-4035 / 7022 A C Skinner Pkwy #200, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.flightfitnfun.com

Conner's A-Maize-ing Acres: Fall Family Fun Day • October 31, 10am to 4pm Conner's A-Maize-ing Acres hosts a Fall Family Fun Day. Children come dressed in Halloween costumes and participate in the yearly Halloween Scavenger Hunt from 10am to 1pm. The first 300 children 12yrs and under will receive a bag of candy from one of the Halloween Characters. Admission to the farm is by reservation only. The last person will be admitted at 4pm. Conner's A-Maize-Ing Acres / 904-879-5453 / 19856 County Road 121, Hilliard, FL 32046 / Drive-In Movie Night connerscornmaze.com Friday, October 16, 7pm Family Drive-Thru Fall Festival October 31, 10am - 1pm Enjoy the fall season, costumes, candy drive through give-away, and other handouts at Victory Lutheran's Church and Preschool's annual Fall Festival.. Due to COVID-19, normal games and activities are suspended for safety precautions. Register to win a $100 Gift Card (one random winner selected the day of the event). Admission is FREE. Victory Lutheran Church and Preschool / 904642-8900 / 4651 Kernan Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.victorylutheran.org

Come see The House with a Clock in the Walls at Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church and School. Gates open at 7, movie begins at 7:30. Weather permitting. A free will donation will be accepted for concessions. RSVP to SOTWFin@aol.com or call 904-641-8385. Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church and School / 904-641-8385 / 6595 Columbia Park Court, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / sotwjax.com MOSH's TOYOPIA Exhibit October 17, 2020 - May 16, 2021 Guests will learn about the evolution of toys throughout the 20th century, witness a giant K-NEX FERRIS WHEEL, and discover a variety of unique interactives, from working ARCADE GAMES from the 1970s and 80s to a life-size DOLLHOUSE. Photo opportunities abound with both the world’s largest ETCH A SKETCH and a life-size MONOPOLY CAR token to snap a selfie in. Participatory experiences include a GIANT PIANO KEYBOARD you can play with your feet and oversized versions of CONNECT 4 and BATTLESHIP. Guests will

also discover why some toys succeeded and some faile d, and which toys have become collector’s items and why. They will learn about the origins of toys, who made them, and why they are so fun and so dear to us. The exhibition is included with Museum admission; no additional tickets are needed. Bring a toy donation for the United States Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots between October 17 and December 9 to support our community! MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Planetarium Night Live Presents Monsters in Space • October 16, 7pm to 8:30pm Planetarium Night Live! presents “Monsters in Space.” Forget what might be lurking in your closet, open the door to what lurks in space. There are truly fearsome leviathans that could keep even the most courageous of us up at night. Explore life ending impactors, planet-vaporizing explosions, and other haunting objects hiding in the dark of space. To safeguard the health of our guests, precautions in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium will be taken. All employees and guests must wear masks while in the Museum. Seating capacity in the Planetarium is limited to 100 and guests/groups will be seated apart to observe social distancing. Suggested for ages 13 and up. Admission is $5 for museum members, $10 non-members. MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Town of Orange Park Fall Festival October 17-18, 10am to 5pm The Town of Orange Park Fall Festival is Clay County’s oldest and largest arts and crafts festival. The two-day festival has over 200 artists & vendors, live entertainment, a kids zone, food, and more. Admission to the festival is free, but some activities do have a fee. Town Hall Park / 904-278-3043 / 2042 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / opfallfestival.com St. Johns County Public Library: Homeschool Histories • October 30, 3pm The St. Johns County Public Library is bringing history to life with hands-on history lessons. Join them for classes where kids can use their hands alongside their brains to learn more about Florida’s role in history. This is an online event that you can conveniently watch on the library's website, Facebook page, or YouTube channel. This month’s program will discuss the Pony Express and Telegraph. St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / sjcpls.org

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids.com for updated information and more events!

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